Technical Abstract:
Previous research has suggested that high levels of dietary disinhibition may contribute to weight gain. Disinhibition, or the tendency to lose control and overeat, is one of the 3 psychological dimensions of eating behavior measured by the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ). This study was conducted to assess the association between dietary disinhibition and eating behavior. Data were from 524 healthy, weight-stable men and women aged 30-69 years. Dietary intakes, obtained from 3 24-hour recalls using the USDA Automated Multiple Pass Method, were conducted 4-5 days apart and included at least one weekend day. Based on a score greater than or equal to the TFEQ disinhibition scale, 78 individuals were classified as High Disinhibition (HD). The remaining subjects were classified as Low to Average Disinhibition (LD). Body mass index (29 vs 26, p<0.01) and waist circumference (98 vs 91 cm, p<0.01) were greater in the HD group. Although mean daily energy intake was similar (2305 vs 2353 kcals), the HD group reported a higher percentage of kilocalories from fat than the LD group (35% vs 32%, p<0.01). Number of snacks and kilocalories from snacks were greater in the HD group. Both groups reported higher energy intakes on weekends compared to weekdays; however, the difference was greater in the HD group. These observations suggest that obesity prevention strategies may benefit by focusing on snacking behaviors, especially for disinhibited individuals. This research is of interest to nutrition educators and scientists working in the area of obesity prevention and eating behaviors.